An extensive time out since 2026 IPL, a subsequent struggle with his fitness. Now, at the brink of his internationals return; Hardik Pandya could lead India in 50-over games.
The 32-year-old has been drafted in the 15-man India A squad to participate in three One-Dayers versus Australia A. The limited-overs encounters would be held in Puducherry from October 6-11. Notably, Pandya’s participation is still dependent on medical and physical clearance from the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru.
Pandya has not been associated in competitive cricket since the end of the 2026 Indian Premier League, when he skippered the Mumbai Indians.
His comeback from a multiple setback of back spasms during the IPL and subsequently a leg strain sustained while training before India’s home ODIs series against Afghanistan, saw him miss out on all the national colors in the summer and the same has forced him into a period of dedicated rehab at the BCCI facility, where his match physical would have been raised to acceptable limits for the 50-over game.
While senior players have been looked upon to get back to match-readiness before the big tournaments of the 2027 World Cup are announced, a fast bowling all-rounder of Pandya’s caliber needs to be brought back gradually, into the rhythm of the longer ODIs version of the game, and considering all this, selectors might be considering on him.
Top order batsman Ruturaj Gaikwad would lead the India A ODIs team with Devdutt Padikkal as the vice-captain.
Along with the seasoned and recognized faces like Rajat Patidar, Sai Sudharsan, Priyansh Arya, Yash Thakur, the men-in-blue are in contention to face the formidable Australian contingent down in Puducherry with an aim to stage India’s dominance in the series.
